Laser light for cars
Osram advances automotive lighting with second generation blue multi-mode laser diode
Osram has introduced the PLPT9 450D_E A01 - a second generation blue multi-mode laser diode designed to be a light source for auxiliary high beam that doubles the range (compared to previous LED solutions) to 600 meters. It also simplifies the system design, according to the company.
“With our newly developed laser diode, car lights can be designed and built even smaller than before – without compromising light output. It combines powerful light with compact dimensions,” explains Walter Rothmund, marketing manager automotive for Emitter Laser Sensor at Osram Opto Semiconductors.
In terms of brightness, laser diodes offer advantages compared to LEDs. At a typical operating current of 2.2 A, the blue PLPT9 450D_E A01 laser reaches an optical output of 3.5 W and emits blue light with a wavelength of 447 nm. With the help of appropriate optics, the laser light is focused at a point only a few micrometers in diameter. A special phosphor converter converts the blue light into white light required for front lighting applications. The luminance achieved is three times higher than that of an LED light source. In comparison, the laser produces 600 cd/mm² while LEDs deliver around 200 cd/mm².
The PLPT9 450D_E A01 laser diode qualified for use in cars is approved for an operating temperature range of -40degC to 120degC. Compared to the first generation with three pins, the TO90 package contains only two pins, which allows for much easier connection and heat dissipation. The laser’s compact dimensions of 9 mm in diameter and a height of < 4.5 mm (without contact pins) mean that headlights can be built much smaller in the future, says Osram.
